THAT KID, NO MATTER WHAT.
For over 2 decades that kid has been the driving force behind iJAG’s mission. That kid might have trauma. They might have academic challenges. They might have significant barriers to employment or come from a community of poverty.
That’s where we come in! We teach core constructs through project-based learning in small classes, integrating employer partnerships throughout the school year. Our ultimate goal is to get that kid the skills and exposure to employment pathways that lead to sustainable wealth.
We’re looking for someone that amplifies the passion we have in our mission to show up for that kid, no matter what. Is that you?
What you do as an Education Specialist:
Position Overview
The Career Education Specialist at iJAG is a cornerstone role that guides high school students toward academic and personal excellence. This role integrates project-based learning (PBL), individual mentoring, data-driven strategies, and work-based learning initiatives, working closely with employer partnerships to prepare students for successful futures.
Essential Functions
Student Recruitment and Engagement:
- Proactively build and sustain a vibrant student cohort for the iJAG program, strategically promoting it within the school's community.
- Partner with school administration to identify and select students fitting program criteria, ensuring seamless progression from district feeder programs.
- Conduct outreach efforts and informational sessions for prospective students, their parents/guardians, and school partners to explain the benefits and opportunities provided by the iJAG program, increasing awareness and interest.
Instructional Delivery and Classroom Management:
- Employs project-based learning (PBL) methodologies to develop engaging and transformative educational journeys, seamlessly bridging classroom theory with real-world applications, thereby enriching students’ practical understanding and skills.
- Utilizes iJAG's competency-based approach to steer project creation and cultivate a student-centered learning environment, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth.
- Champions student empowerment and autonomy, cultivating an inclusive learning environment that encourages teamwork and community building.
- Develop and maintain a positive, structured learning environment that promotes student engagement and participation through effective classroom management strategies, adapting techniques to meet the diverse needs of learners and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities.
- Implement effective behavior management plans and conflict resolution strategies to cultivate a safe, respectful classroom culture, enabling students to focus on their academic and personal growth within a supportive and inclusive classroom setting.
Data Management and Analysis:
- Maintains accurate student records, systematically tracking essential metrics including attendance, academic performance, and program participation, to monitor and enhance student progress effectively.
- Skillfully analyzes data to evaluate the impact of the iJAG program on student outcomes, utilizing insights to identify areas needing targeted interventions or additional supports, thereby optimizing student success.
- Manages and updates Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) for students, participating in relevant meetings to advocate and adapt educational strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner.
Community and Employer Engagement:
- Designs and implements comprehensive work-based learning programs that integrate academic learning with practical workplace experiences, preparing students for life after high school by developing their professional skills and understanding industry expectations.
- Coordinates student placements in work-based learning settings, including internships and apprenticeships, ensuring a match between student interest and employer needs, and provides ongoing support to both students and employers to maximize learning outcomes and workplace success.
- Actively cultivates and maintains robust relationships with a broad spectrum of employers, securing a variety of career exploration and skill development opportunities that align with student interests and market demands.
- Cultivates and mobilizes community resources, developing partnerships and collaborations that support the educational experience and open new pathways for iJAG students, thereby ensuring support and opportunities for student support.
Professional Development and Support:
- Engages in collaboration with the program supervisor and school administration, leveraging collective expertise to drive the success of the program and ensure it meets both educational standards and student needs effectively.
- Participate in iJAG and school district professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and continuously enhance skills and knowledge.
- Actively supports graduating seniors by providing resources and personalized guidance tailored to their post-graduation aspirations, facilitating a smooth transition into further education, military, training, or employment opportunities.
Additional Requirements
- Demonstrated proficiency in delivering content to diverse audiences and adapting teaching styles to meet the varied needs of students.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
- Skilled in leveraging data analytics to refine instructional approaches and enhance student achievement.
- Skilled in building supportive relationships while upholding professional standards.
- Curriculum development capability and tech-savviness with Microsoft Office/Google apps.
- Ability to learn new software systems.
Education, Experience, and Other Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline is essential, with a master's degree strongly preferred.
- Relevant experience in secondary or post-secondary education environments, demonstrating a deep understanding of academic support systems.
- Current possession of an active Iowa teacher license or iJAG authorization, with the expectation to secure a Work-Based Learning (WBL) Supervisor authorization within the first six months of employment.
- Commitment to iJAG’s mission and flexibility to perform diverse program roles.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $46,350.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Ability to Relocate:
- Brooklyn, IA 52211: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person